In 2020, the disability community reached out to King County, pointing out areas where the County was falling short in equitably serving people with disabilities: ADA compliance, accessibility, communications, disability equity in programs, and inclusive employment. In response to the community feedback, the Office of Equity and Social Justice (OESJ) staff developed a Disability Equity Action Plan in partnership with disability community members and advocacy groups such as the Disability Empowerment Center (formerly Alliance of People with Disabilities), The ARC of King County, The NW ADA Center, and the King County Disability… Read More

Smoke from wildfires is affecting some areas in King County today and tomorrow. While the forecast has smoke decreasing later this week, air quality may change frequently throughout the day, and may be different from location to location. Check airnow.gov and Puget Sound Clean Air Agency for updates. King County departments are implementing standard operating procedures and providing safety guidance for employees who are working outside in smoky conditions. This includes limiting outdoor work and issuing masks. DES Fleet Stores has ample supply of N95 masks for employees. Section Managers and Division… Read More

By Dow Constantine, King County Executive Each year, employees in every department and every branch of our government join together in the spirit of giving and community during King County’s Annual Giving Drive. It is a time that demonstrates the power of our collective giving in support of the causes that are important to us. At a time when many communities – here at home and around the world – have been devastated by natural disasters, our support can help them recover, build resilience, and thrive once again. More than 100 people lost… Read More

Whether you’re traveling to your worksite full-time or working a hybrid schedule, King County Metro Vanpool can save you time and money, and improve your commute. Best of all, your Employee Transportation Program (ETP) covers everything – the van, gas, tolls, insurance, emergency ride home and more –so you pay nothing out-of-pocket! Vanpool is a consistent group of people — such as co-workers, neighbors, family or friends — who share a similar commute route and work schedule. It takes just three or more people to start a vanpool, with the members sharing… Read More

When the coronavirus pandemic kicked into full gear, some of the many county services that got shut down were the employee-focused, in-person training and education programs. To prevent the spread of COVID-19, the state of Washington allowed for various certifications to be postponed. Ever since the state removed those restrictions this spring, the team responsible for trainings has been in hyperdrive trying to meet the demand and recertify all employees that need to be. “Safety training is essential to the success of many King County employees,” said Mary Beth Short, Central Employee… Read More